Five years ago as I was nearing retirement at the age of 52, I was encouraged to audition for my very first play at community theatre. I have absolutely no formal training in theatre and have never been in a play with the exception of my senior year in high school; where, unfortunately if you could read you were pretty much guaranteed a role! Happily, I was cast and have been in five plays total since that time. I was very appreciative to be cast in any role and accepted every role.

My question: If you really want to be considered for a specific role in a play, is it ever appropriate to state that preference on the audition form? I am aware that some directors will ask that you please state any role in which you do NOT want to be considered. Is it ever appropriate to approach the director in advance even before auditions have been announced if you know the director’s name?

I am guessing every actor has a role in which they believe they could win an Oscar if just given the chance. However, I really don’t want to embarrass myself due to my ignorance! Thank you for your time and I always appreciate reading your newsletter and have actually used a lot of your information when preparing and performing during these fun five years.

Sincerely,
Allen Grymes
agrymes@mchsi.com